Macworld Australia

Every now and then a product comes along that’s so crazy, yet so stunningly simple, that it becomes an instant classic. The HoverBar from TwelveSouth is one of these.

‘Potential’ is the key word for the HoverBar; it would be impossible, in the few words we have here, to explain how many uses there could be for the device.

Simply a malleable metal arm with a clamp at one end and an iPad mount at the other, it’s the way you use it that counts.

Attaching the clamp to any surface or object allows you to hover your device at any angle or height you require. Floating next to an iMac is an obvious solution, but the HoverBar works equally well from a bedside table, kitchen counter, car seat or anything offering an inch of available area to grip.

Those who enjoy iPad gaming via mirroring to a TV through an HDMI Apple Digital AV Adapter or an Apple TV will be pleased with the HoverBar’s flexibility.

Tightening the component parts with the provided Allen key is essential. It makes moving the product from one room or desk to another slower but, for the safety it affords your expensive mobile device, it’s worth it.

A ball joint behind the iPad enhances flexibility, allowing users to rotate and tilt the device and get exactly the positioning they want.

For such an infinitely useful product, the HoverBar only has two flaws. It doesn’t come with a price tag that’s as minimal as the device itself, however. And we’d really like to see a version for the iPhone.

There’s also no version for the original iPad, but the good news is the HoverBar’s rigid-plastic, corner-hugging cradle also fits the new iPad, albeit with a tighter fit than when mounting an iPad 2.

Macworld Australia’s buying advice.

Overall, anyone with an iPad 2 or the new iPad will find a use for, and enjoy, the HoverBar.

Besides the facts that it doesn’t come cheap and can’t be used with the iPad 1, it’s the height of convenience and an incredibly useful component for any room in the home or office.